Improvised catching skills are learnt in game situations

In his column in this week’s Gaelic Life, John Morrison explains how coaches can teach players to transfer their training skills to competitive games.

He says that coaches can adapt certain methods to prepare for high-pressured situations.

He describes seven levels of skills development which players go through, though only the elite players get to level seven, which he describes as performing skills to a high level in Championship conditions.

But he also goes on to say that performance skills, those learned from playing games, are better than basic skills learned on the training field.

“Often in competition ‘text book’ skills are rarely exectued, especially in Gaelic Games, Soccer and Rugby.

“The Physical and mental pressure from the opposition, crowd, weather, impact upon skill execution ability.

“The result? Players will improve their skills, yet while the basic form is there, the skill quality may not be.

“For example Gaelic or Rugby players when tackled will spill the ball but in falling over they will decide to roll a cerain way and then they catch the ball. That is an improved catch skill.

“Skill form is fine, but improvised skill wins games.”

Read the full column in the current issue of Gaelic Life. Click here to buy the online edition.